March, 17 2005	Thursday	06 Safar 1426

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ISLAMABAD, March 16: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Wednesday Pakistan desires peace with all its neighbours and seeks to resolve all outstanding issues including Kashmir through dialogue. The prime minister was talking to the visiting Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, Capt (retired) Amarinder Singh and members of his delegation who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House here. Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi was also present on the occasion. Mr Singh said he was impressed with the progress and economic development of Pakistan.

He also appreciated the Pakistan government for maintaining and upkeep of Sikh holy sites. The prime minister said the government of Pakistan believed in protecting religious places of all faiths and assured him that Sikh holy shrine will continue to be looked after.

The prime minister said the government was working to improve the standard of living of the people by focusing on health, education and social sectors. The Indian chief minister extended an invitation to the prime minister to visit Indian Punjab.

Indian High Commissioner Shiv Shankar Menon was also present on the occasion.—APP

Our Chakwal Correspondent adds: Earlier talking to newsmen at Katas Raj, Chakwal, Chief Minister Singh said both the Punjabs share a similar history. “So our common culture and language will help the two countries come closer and resolve issues”.

Mr Singh, who arrived Pakistan on a four-day visit on Monday, was on a brief visit to Katas Raj, a famous pilgrimage site of Hindus near Chakwal here on Wednesday. Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi also accompanied him.

Mr Singh expressed the hope that after initiation of the peace process between the two countries solution to misunderstandings and disputes would be found. This process would get momentum in the coming days.

“In the global backdrop of the world people-to-people contacts have become inevitable. Exchange of cultural and sports activities would help boost business ties too,” he added.

Mr Singh said over one billion people of the subcontinent are looking forward to the meeting between President Gen Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in Kolkata.

He said this meeting would break the ice and a peaceful atmosphere would prevail in the region. In reply to a question, he admitted that there was some pressure on both the governments but people were happy over the recent peace initiatives taken by the two governments.

He suggested that borders should be opened and visa restrictions be relaxed. Chief Minister Singh said he had brought a message of love, brotherhood and peace from India.

He said: “Now, he is confident that the things will improve positively and all the disputes will be settled through dialogues.” About trade, the chief minister said the concept of free trade between the two countries at present is at initial stage. Business communities on both sides are in favour of the idea, Mr Singh said.

Replying to a question he said the software developed by Patiala University would help facilitate the difference of script of Punjabi language.

The chief minister of the Indian Punjab also performed rites at a gurdwara in the village. He announced a grant of Rs1.1 million on behalf of his government for the renovation of Katas Archaeological complex. He appreciated Pakistan government for the steps taken for the uplift of minorities and their religious places in Pakistan.